We've got to say it -- Apocalyptica has become one of our all-time favorite acts to sit down with. Besides the members' various eccentricities, the group as a whole will keep you laughing while offering fascinating info on upcoming projects.

In this exclusive interview, multi-instrumentalists Eicca Toppinen, Paavo Lötjönen, Perttu Kivilaakso, and Mikko Sirén join new vocalist Franky Perez (Scars on Broadway / Slash) to speak all about Apocalyptica's eighth studio album, Shadowmaker.

From their beginnings as a Metallica tribute band, Apocalyptica has evolved into its own entity. Now focusing on original material, the neoclassical metal band has acquired millions of fans and sold over four million albums worldwide.

As for Shadowmaker, the band is extremely excited for its release, much in part to the addition of Perez. "Franky, voice wise, is exactly how we felt that we would like to have the album sound," says Perttu. "Plus, for us, it was very important that we find a person who fits into the crew, and I think this beautiful fellow here [points to Franky] overdid everything that we expected. He's just the coolest guy on Earth."

Check out our Shadowmaker interview with Apocalyptica above and get excited for more segments with the Finnish metal band coming soon! Shadowmaker will become available April 21. To pre-order the album or buy the single "Cold Blood," head over to iTunes.

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